GRAHAM BOLTON WINS BENNIE TROPHY FOR FOURTH TIME IN SIX YEARS

Graham Bolton of Bute Golf Club won  the Bennie Trophy, 

Rothesay Golf Club’s premier strokeplay tournament, for the 

fourth time in six years on Saturday.

Bolton, who first won the Bennie in 1988 last won the prize in 

2011, carded a total of 137 to win the 36-hole scratch competition 

for the 11th time.

With a stiff South Westerly breeze blowing all day, Millport's Andy 

Mullen set the first round pace with a one under par 68 to lead by 

2. Rothesay stalwart George Reynolds set the 36 hole target by 

adding a great 67 to his morning's 72 (139). Bolton played some 

inspired golf in the tricky conditions, getting to 5 under after 14 

holes in the afternoon before dropping 2 shots over the finishing 

stretch to card a 3 under 66, added to his morning 71 (137)

Jack Mackirdy made it a clean sweep of podium places for the 

host club when he secured third place thanks to the better 

second round score after tying with Old Ranfurly’s Iain White and 

Andy Mullen of Millport on a two-round total of 145.

With the Rothesay clubhouse bursting at the seams, Vice Captain 

Stan Gaston conducted the vote of thanks to the sponsors, Cowal 

Building and Plumbing Supplies, the greens staff, Tommy Ronald 

and Sean Kernaghan who had the course in magnificent condition 

for a team of just 2, the clubhouse staff and finally the 52 

competitors for supporting this famous event.

Remember when all 36 hole tournaments used to finish like this? 

Why not come along next year and have a great day out "doon the 

watter"

The prizes were presented by Mrs Nicky Shaw, representing the 

tournament’s sponsors, Cowal Building and Plumbing Supplies.

Picture shows Graham Bolton with Nicky Shaw.